Meet New Ward 7 Council Member Katie Cashman, January 16

A conversation with newly elected Ward 7 Council Member, Katie Cashman

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Tuesday, January 16, 2024

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8:00am - 9:30am at Minneapolis College.

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RSVP by January 15

December 2023 Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Update

Via a December 22 e-announcement from the City of Minneapolis:

Project Overview

The City of Minneapolis Public Works Department is constructing a new parallel storm tunnel, enlarging a portion of the existing storm tunnel, and constructing a new tunnel access in Downtown Minneapolis.

The new tunnel is being constructed parallel to the existing tunnel located under Washington Ave S between Nicollet Mall and Chicago Ave. The existing tunnel under Chicago Ave between Washington Ave S and the Mississippi River is being expanded to handle the increased stormwater capacity. The purpose of this project is to reduce pressure in the existing tunnel, provide more room for future growth, and to reduce the need for future repairs and tunnel failures.

Project Map

Latest Project News

Mississippi River Portal

• Crews continue reconstruction of the storm tunnel outlet at the Mississippi River; excavation activities are almost complete.

2nd Ave

• Crews continue construction of a concrete liner for the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave from the new tunnel access shaft in the southbound lanes of 2nd Ave S, just north of the Washington Ave intersection.

Portland Ave

• Crews continue construction of a concrete liner for the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave from the existing tunnel access shaft at the northeast corner of the Washington Ave and Portland Ave intersection.

Lining progress

In November, crews continued to work on the concrete tunnel lining, pouring about 1,450 cubic yards of concrete. To date 12,750 cubic yards of concrete have been poured. As noted in the infographic above, this is just under four times the volume of an Olympic swimming pool. This process is approximately 90% complete.

Long-term closures/restrictions

• The north westbound lane, bike lane, and parking lane remains closed on Washington Ave between Portland Ave and Park Ave. These closures will remain in place until the project is completed.
  • During this closure, pedestrians can still use the sidewalks along Washington Ave.
  • Crosswalks across Washington Ave and Portland Ave will remain open.
  • Bicyclists will share the traffic lane.
  • The existing left turn lane on Washington Ave at the Portland Ave intersection will temporarily become a left turn and through lane.

• Northbound lane of Portland Ave will be periodically closed between Washington Ave and 2nd Closures will happen during the workday only.
  • Closure is for the placement of concrete into the tunnel.
  • East crosswalk across Washington and north crosswalk across Portland will be closed.
  • Sidewalks will remain open to businesses and residences.

• The north sidewalk along Washington Ave remains restricted between Hennepin Ave and Nicollet Mall.
  • During these restrictions, pedestrians share the bike lane on Washington Ave.
  • The crosswalks at the Washington Ave intersections of Nicollet Mall and Hennepin Ave remains open.

• The sidewalk on the east side of 4th Ave S remains restricted through the end of the project. The dewatering well and pumps are installed in this area.
  • Pedestrians can use the sidewalk on the west side of 4th Ave S.
  • The crosswalk at the Washington Ave and 4th Ave intersection remains open.
  • Access to driveways off 4th Ave S remains open.

• The west sidewalk of Portland Ave south of Washington Ave will remain restricted to pedestrians around the dewatering well and pumps until the project is completed.

• The parking lot and trail near Mill Runs Park is closed for the winter.

• 2nd Ave S remains a single lane in each direction using the northbound lanes between Washington Ave and 1st St S. Access will be restricted until the project is completed.
  • Access to driveways off 2nd Ave S remain open. There may be short-term access delays while crews move equipment and materials around.

What to expect

• Expect additional noise, dust, and vibration as crews complete work.
• Schedule is tentative and subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.
• Working hours will vary in the coming weeks due to the holiday and scheduled training.
• The next project update will be in February 2024.

Stay Connected

Visit the project website for more information and to sign up for project updates: https://www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/central-city-tunnel/

Email the project team: info@mplscentralcitytunnel.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-888-9418

Dramatic Sunrise by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Ric Rosow

Dramatic Sunrise

When I walked out into our living room on December 15th I saw this amazing sky. The upper sky was dark, with gray, purple and black tones. The lower sky red. The Mississippi River reflected the color in the sky. I ran to my office to get my camera, leaving the tripod behind and took a number of shots before the clouds and the entire sky changed. This time I was lucky. I wonder why I just don't leave the camera in the living room on its tripod.

You can see more of my work at ricrosowphotography.com and PriceKrishnanGallery.com.

Free Disaster Preparedness Training Offered at Central Library in January

Sign up now for a free two-day training in January to help make you more confident, prepared and secure in a natural or human-caused disaster.

In Ready Camp, you’ll learn about:

• Making an emergency preparedness kit
• Emergency alerts
• Severe weather
• Planning for medical needs
• Staying in contact with your family
• Protecting your pets

You will also learn ways to store water and emergency food supplies, create first aid and survival kits, make a list of affordable and recommended emergency items, and get examples of equipment and devices that can help in surviving a disaster.

Ready Camp will feature industry experts related to the fields of safety, health and wellness, and emergency preparedness. Food will be provided at no cost.

Plan to join both sessions:

Free two-day Ready Camp
4:45pm-8pm January 23-24
Minneapolis Central Library, 300 Nicollet Mall

Register online

Here's What’s Happening in Downtown December 21-27

The mpls downtown calendar is packed with events and activities throughout the holiday season. Here is a preview of what’s ahead over the next week.

* * * * * Takeaways This Weekend * * * * * 

This holiday week is the perfect time to head downtown for a show! “A Christmas Carol” continues at the Guthrie, “Mrs. Doubtfire” is at Orpheum Theatre, “Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy” is at the State Theatre, and “All I Want for Christmas is You…to Elf Off” continues at the Dudley Riggs Theatre.

The Minnesota Timberwolves hope to take down the NBA In-Season Tournament Champion Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday. Plus, the Minnesota Vikings look to keep their playoff hopes alive with a win against the Detroit Lions on Sunday.

For those hoping to eat out over the holidays, check out our list of restaurants that will be open down below!

Don’t forget about Holidays on Nicollet! There are pop-up shops featuring nearly 70 locally owned small businesses, plus 10 window displays along Nicollet, featuring holiday designs created by local artists. The Holidays on Nicollet experience runs every weekend through January 5. Great visuals and interview opportunities all month. Plus, you can find great musical performances over the lunch hour on select dates at Capella Tower, IDS Center, City Center, and U.S. Bank Plaza.

The mpls downtown can help you plan your next visit during the holidays and beyond! Check out mdc’s holiday guide at mplsdowntown.com/guides_activities/celebrate-the-season-in-mpls-downtown/, and the events calendar at mplsdowntown.com/events.

* * * * * Don’t Miss * * * * * 

Winter Warm-Up – Thursday & Tuesday | U.S. Bank Stadium

Peabo Bryson & Haley Reinhart: Home for the Holidays – Thursday & Friday | Dakota

Timberwolves vs. Lakers – Thursday | Target Center

A Swingin’ Christmas w/ The Andrew Walesch Big Band – Saturday | Dakota

* * * * * Thursday, December 21 * * * * * 

A Christmas Carol | 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theater

Winter Warm-Up | 5 p.m. – U.S. Bank Stadium

Peabo Bryson & Haley Reinhart: Home for the Holidays | 6:30 & 8:30 p.m. – Dakota

Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy | 7 p.m. – State Theatre

Mrs. Doubtfire | 7:30 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre

‘Art’ | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre

All I Want for Christmas Is You…to Elf Off | 7:30 p.m. – Dudley Riggs Theatre

Timberwolves vs. Lakers | 8:00 p.m. – Target Center

* * * * * Friday, December 22 * * * * * 

A Christmas Carol | 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theater

Mrs. Doubtfire | 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre

Peabo Bryson & Haley Reinhart: Home for the Holidays | 6:30 & 8:30 p.m. – Dakota 

Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy | 7 p.m. – State Theatre 

‘Art’ | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre 

All I Want for Christmas Is You…to Elf Off | 7:30 p.m. – Dudley Riggs Theatre

Emo Nite | 8 p.m. – First Avenue

* * * * * Saturday, December 23 * * * * * 

Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy | 1 p.m. & 5 p.m. – State Theatre

A Christmas Carol | 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theater

‘Art’ | 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre

Mrs. Doubtfire | 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre

All I Want for Christmas Is You…to Elf Off | 4:30 & 7:30 p.m. – Dudley Riggs Theatre

A Swingin’ Christmas w/ The Andrew Walesch Big Band | 3 p.m. & 7 p.m. – Dakota

* * * * * Sunday, December 24 * * * * * 

Vikings vs. Lions | 12 p.m. – U.S. Bank Stadium

Mrs. Doubtfire | 1 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre

Christmas Eve at Mara | 5 – 9:30 p.m. – Mara

* * * * * Monday, December 25 * * * * * 

Christmas Day at Mara | 11 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. – Mara

The Bad Plus | 5 p.m. & 7 p.m. – Dakota

* * * * * Tuesday, December 26 * * * * * 

A Christmas Carol | 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theater

Winter Warm-Up | 5 p.m. – U.S. Bank Stadium

The Bad Plus | 6:30 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. – Dakota

“Art” | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre

All I Want for Christmas Is You…to Elf Off | 7:30 p.m. – Dudley Riggs Theatre

* * * * * Wednesday, December 27 * * * * * 

A Christmas Carol | 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theater

The Bad Plus | 6:30 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. – Dakota

“Art” | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre

All I Want for Christmas Is You…to Elf Off | 7:30 p.m. – Dudley Riggs Theatre

* * * * * Weekly Happenings * * * * * 

Winter Maker’s Market | 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. – The Dayton’s Project (Daily)

Holiday Music at Capella Tower | 7 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 4 p.m. – Capella Tower (Monday – Friday)

Holidays on Nicollet Pop-Up Holiday Stores | 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. – Various Locations (Tuesdays through Saturdays)

Holiday Under Glass Concert Series | 12 – 1 p.m. – IDS Center Crystal Court (Tuesdays – Thursdays)

Live Holiday Music | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. – U.S. Bank Plaza (Tuesdays – Thursdays)

Farmer’s Market | 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Lyndale Avenue (Saturdays and Sundays)

Nordic Village Market | 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. – Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis (Saturdays and Sundays)

Handmade Holiday Market | 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. – Lakes & Legends Brewing Company (Saturdays and Sundays)

* * * * * Restaurants Open During the Holidays * * * * * 

Mara | Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day

Giulia | Christmas Day

Manny’s Steakhouse | Christmas Day

Breva Bar & Grill | Christmas Day, New Year’s Day

Butcher & The Boar | New Year’s Eve

Spoon & Stable | New Year’s Eve

Borough | New Year’s Eve

Guacaya Bistreaux | New Year's Eve

Dakota | Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, New Year’s Day 

Meet Minneapolis Clothing Drive in Support of Hennepin Healthcare Patients in Need - Accepting Donations thru January 12

Help to warm hands, feet and hearts!

Meet Minneapolis is hosting a clothing drive in support of Hennepin Healthcare patients in need. Some of these children and teens are foster children needing full outfits upon discharge, some adults need cold weather relief items or warmer layers than they arrived with. Our wish lists outline the new, tags on items being accepted.

“Clothing is one way we show compassion. We strive to ensure patients have the essentials they need.”                               Jess, Hennepin Healthcare Social Worker

Needed Items / Where / When / How:

For questions contact Ka Vang at 612-767-8156 or email kav@minneapolis.org

Minneapolis Restaurants Are Here For You on Christmas Day!

Eater Twin Cities has compiled a list of Twin Cities restaurants who look forward to hosting your Christmas day meal: https://twincities.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-open-christmas-day-minneapolis-st-paul. 

In Minneapolis, look for Mara Restaurant and Nordic Village at Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis, Nicollet Island Inn, Breva Bar & Grill, Manny's Steakhouse and more. Click on the above link for more details!

Minneapolis Public Works is Hiring

As recently announced in a City of Minneapolis e-newsletter:

Join the teams that keep the city running. Many of the positions include paid on-the-job training.

Apply if you’re 18 or older with a valid driver’s license, fluent in English and open to working in all weather. We have opportunities for you whether you’re skilled or need paid on-the-job training.

Job openings in Public Works include:

• Public Works service worker trainee. This position performs manual labor and learns to drive and operate equipment. You’d support the department’s construction and maintenance activities. You will be supported in obtaining your CDL Class B license.
• Public Works service worker 1. This position performs manual labor and drives and operates equipment to support construction and maintenance work.
• Public Works service worker 2. This position performs manual labor and drives and operates heavy specialty equipment to support construction and maintenance work.
• Water distribution operator trainee. This position performs manual labor to maintain the City’s water distribution system.
• Water distribution operator. This position performs manual labor and semi-skilled work to maintain the City’s water distribution system.
• Automotive mechanic. This position maintains and repairs the City’s fleet of vehicles and machinery including snowplows.

Find online and in-person information sessions on the City website.

Read about these jobs and find out how to apply on the City website.

Apply on the City website by January 14, 2024.

Theatre in the Round announces a New Adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s Classic, The Seagull, Jan 12 - Feb 4

Theatre in the Round Presents The Seagull by Anton Chekhov, adapted and directed by Craig Johnson

January 12 to February 4 - Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm

Theatre in the Round Players (TRP) continues their 72nd Season with Anton Chekhov’s classic The Seagull, adapted and directed by Craig Johnson, running weekends January 12 through February 4 with a Monday Pay-What-You-Can performance on January 22. 

Set in a rural estate in Russia, this classic play explores the complicated relationships between a group of artists, including an aging actress, her lover - a famous writer, and her son- a struggling playwright. As dreams of greatness, artistic passion, and languishing talent become tangled into their romantic affairs, the play raises deep questions about the nature of love, art, and the human experience. This new adaptation captures all the humor and pathos of Chekhov’s classic play with a fresh tone for contemporary audiences.

Craig Johnson directs the ten-member cast with sets designed by Michael Hoover, costumes by Claire Looker, lighting by Andrew Vance, props by Kris Schmidt, and sound design by Dietrich Poppen.

An audience discussion with the cast and director will be held immediately after the performance on Sunday, January 28.

Tickets are $25. For information, call the theatre’s box office at 612-333-3010 or visit its website.

Here's What’s Happening in Downtown December 14 – 20

The mpls downtown calendar is packed with events and activities throughout the holiday season. Here is a preview of what’s ahead over the next week. 

 *  *  *  *  * Takeaways This Weekend *  *  *  *  *

Fans of Holidazzle won’t want to miss the Minni Dazzle Thursday through Sunday at the Fulton Beer Taproom. This holiday hub will offer a variety of festive experiences including local vendors, live music, free Santa visits from 5–7pm on Friday and Saturday, games, activities, and more! 

There is also an incredible variety of holiday happenings downtown this weekend. Check out the holiday shows at Orchestra Hall, The Cowles Center, Dakota, and others. 

The top team in the NBA Western Conference, the Minnesota Timberwolves, are back home for a game on Saturday night against the Pacers. Plus, Mrs. Doubtfire comes to Orpheum Theatre next week! 

Don’t forget about Holidays on Nicollet! There are pop-up shops featuring nearly 70 locally owned small businesses, plus 10 window displays along Nicollet, featuring holiday designs created by local artists. The Holidays on Nicollet experience runs every weekend through January 5. Great visuals and interview opportunities all month. Plus, you can find great musical performances over the lunch hour on select dates at Capella Tower, IDS Center, City Center, and U.S. Bank Plaza. 

The mpls downtown can help you plan your next visit during the holidays and beyond! Check out mdc’s holiday guide at mplsdowntown.com/guides_activities/celebrate-the-season-in-mpls-downtown/, and the events calendar at mplsdowntown.com/events.

 *  *  *  *  * Don't Miss  *  *  *  *  *

Minni Dazzle – Thursday – Sunday | Fulton Beer Taproom 

Rhythm Street Movement’s Who Brought the Humbug – Thursday - Sunday | The Cowles Center 

Frozen in Concert – Friday - Sunday | Orchestra Hall 

Timberwolves vs. Pacers – Saturday| Target Center 

‘Art’ – Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday | Guthrie Theater 

A Holiday Evening with Kristin Chenoweth – Monday | Orchestra Hall 

Mrs. Doubtfire – Tuesday & Wednesday | Orpheum Theatre 

Paul Metsa & Sonny Earl – 25th Anniversary Show – Wednesday | Dakota

 *  *  *  *  * Thursday, December 14  *  *  *  *  *

Minni Dazzle | 5 – 9 p.m. – Fulton Beer Taproom 

Hot Mulligan | 5:30 p.m. – The Fillmore 

Southside Aces: Christmas in New Orleans | 7 p.m. – Dakota 

A Christmas Carol | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theater 

Rhythm Street Movement’s Who Brought the Humbug | 7:30 p.m. – The Cowles Center 

My 00’s Playlist | 7:30 p.m. – Target Center 

All I Want for Christmas Is You…to Elf Off | 7:30 p.m. – Dudley Riggs Theatre

 *  *  *  *  * Friday, December 15  *  *  *  *  *

Minni Dazzle | 5 – 9 p.m. – Fulton Beer Taproom 

Robert Glasper | 6:30 & 9 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

Frozen in Concert | 7 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

A Christmas Carol | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theater 

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas | 7:30 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre 

Rhythm Street Movement’s Who Brought the Humbug | 7:30 p.m. – The Cowles Center 

Bach’s Christmas Oratorio | 7:30 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

The Big Wu | 8 p.m. – First Avenue

 *  *  *  *  * Saturday, December 16  *  *  *  *  *

North Loop Winter Market | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. – 501 Royalston Avenue 

Nicollet Island Winter Market | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. – Nicollet Island Pavilion 

A Christmas Carol | 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theater 

Minni Dazzle | 2 – 7 p.m. – Fulton Beer Taproom 

Frozen in Concert | 2 & 7 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

Rhythm Street Movement’s Who Brought the Humbug | 2 & 7:30 p.m. – The Cowles Center 

Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy | 3 p.m. – State Theatre 

All I Want for Christmas Is You…to Elf Off | 4:30 & 7:30 p.m. – Dudley Riggs Theatre 

Live Boxing Series: Morrell Jr. vs. Agbeko | 5 p.m. – The Armory 

Robert Glasper | 6:30 & 9 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

Wolves vs. Pacers | 7 p.m. – Target Center 

Michael W. Smith Christmas | 7 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre 

‘Art’ | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre 

DURRY | 9 p.m. – First Avenue

 *  *  *  *  * Sunday, December 17  *  *  *  *  *

Holiday Tea at Brit’s Pub | 12 – 4 p.m. – Brit’s Pub 

Minni Dazzle | 1 – 5 p.m. – Fulton Beer Taproom 

Rhythm Street Movement’s Who Brought the Humbug | 1 p.m. – The Cowles Center 

A Christmas Carol | 1 p.m. & 7 p.m. – Guthrie Theater 

Frozen in Concert | 2 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy | 3 p.m. – State Theatre 

All I Want for Christmas Is You…to Elf Off | 4:30 & 7:30 p.m. – Dudley Riggs Theatre 

Robert Glasper | 6:30 & 9 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

‘Art’ | 7 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre 

*  *  *  *  * Monday, December 18 *  *  *  *  *

The Peterson Family – Twas the Jam Before Christmas | 7 p.m. – Dakota

A Holiday Evening with Kristin Chenoweth | 7:30 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

*  *  *  *  * Tuesday, December 19  *  *  *  *  *

The Peterson Family – Twas the Jam Before Christmas | 7 p.m. – Dakota 

Sing! An Irish Christmas | 7 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

Mrs. Doubtfire (Opening Night) | 7:30 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre 

A Christmas Carol | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theater 

“Art” | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre

All I Want for Christmas Is You…to Elf Off | 7:30 p.m. – Dudley Riggs Theatre

*  *  *  *  * Wednesday, December 20 *  *  *  *  *

Paul Metsa & Sonny Earl – 25th Anniversary Show | 7 p.m. – Dakota

Mrs. Doubtfire | 7:30 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre

A Christmas Carol | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theater 

“Art” | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre 

All I Want for Christmas Is You…to Elf Off | 7:30 p.m. – Dudley Riggs Theatre 

*  *  *  *  * Weekend Happenings *  *  *  *  *

Winter Maker’s Market | 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. – The Dayton’s Project (Daily) 

Holiday Music at Capella Tower | 7 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 4 p.m. – Capella Tower (Monday – Friday) 

Holiday Under Glass Concert Series | 12 – 1 p.m. – IDS Center Crystal Court (Tuesdays – Thursdays) 

Live Holiday Music | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. – U.S. Bank Plaza (Tuesdays – Thursdays) 

Farmer’s Market | 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Lyndale Avenue (Saturdays and Sundays) 

Nordic Village Market | 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. – Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis (Saturdays and Sundays) 

Handmade Holiday Market | 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. – Lakes & Legends Brewing Company (Saturdays and Sundays) 

Get Involved! Plus, share your experiences on social media tagging #mymplsdt, and look for downtown giveaways including tickets, gift cards, and experiences on the @mplsdowntown Instagram account. 

FINNOVATION Lab Announces Jennifer Barta as Fractional CEO

CPG veteran brings focused executive leadership to Minnesota-based entrepreneurs launching mission-driven businesses

FINNOVATION Lab, a professional resource hub supporting impact-driven CPG startups, has welcomed industry veteran Jennifer Barta to lead as Fractional CEO. Barta joins the organization with 30+ years of experience in the consumer products industry, including directing and managing at industry titans General Mills and Land O’ Lakes.

Jennifer BartaBarta’s background in bringing innovative ideas to scale will guide FINNOVATION Lab and its entrepreneurial members who span a wide range of experience levels and are working to launch diverse product offerings. FINNOVATION Lab’s mission to make Minnesota the home of mission-driven brands aligns to Barta’s personal convictions. Barta is heavily involved in Minnesota’s startup and accelerator community, having served as a mentor for Grow North and Naturally MN and an MN Cup Judge for the Food/Agriculture/Beverage division.

"Stepping into this role has been exciting and rewarding," said Barta. "I enjoy serving as a guide to a vibrant community of entrepreneurs who have ideas that have real potential to create change. FINNOVATION Lab is doing impactful and important work, and my sleeves are rolled all the way up as we connect our members with resources and services to help them in their growth journey."

As CEO, Barta will lead FINNOVATION Lab’s work of nurturing innovation and sustainability in the food and beverage industry by implementing programming that fosters growth and facilitates access to capital for local start-ups. Centrally located in Downtown Minneapolis, FINNOVATION Lab offers an expansive workspace that promotes collaboration, allows flexible work and meeting options, and provides members access to networking and skill-building events. FINNOVATION Lab has supported dozens of mission-driven entrepreneurs as they launch and grow their businesses including Wicked Kitchen, Sustainable Farming Association, Maazah, and NETZRO.

Barta joins Connie Rutledge, Executive Director of FINNOVATION Institute, who has worked with FINNOVATION Lab since 2019. The Institute, a 501(c)3, works alongside FINNOVATION Lab to provide entrepreneurial education, including the FINNOVATION Fellowship, which supports early-stage social entrepreneurs who have bold ideas for sustainable impact.

To learn more about FINNOVATION Lab and its mission and professional resources, visit www.finn-lab.com.

IDS Center Secures Loan Extension

Year-to-date, the IDS Center has completed 16 lease transactions for more than 121,670 square feet.

Accesso, a Florida-based real estate investment manager managing over 14 million square feet of office properties and developing thousands of multifamily units, announced today that the IDS Center, the famed centerpiece of the downtown Minneapolis skyline, has secured a loan extension for up to three years.

The extension was negotiated by Accesso, with the assistance of Iron Hound Management Company, LLC (“Iron Hound”), a commercial real estate finance firm specializing in loan restructurings and debt and equity placements. Accesso intends to continue to seek longer-term financing as market conditions in Minneapolis and across the U.S. improve.

“We are excited to come to terms on a loan extension for the IDS Center as challenges surrounding the availability of capital persist, reflecting our success at the property despite a difficult macroeconomic environment,” said Deb Kolar, General Manager at Accesso, who has been with the IDS Center for more than 30 years. “This extension enables us to continue doing what we’ve done successfully for many years – adeptly managing the iconic property while executing a highly successful leasing program. We look forward to sharing news on leasing activity in the near future.”

The completion of the loan extension is a testament to Accesso’s longstanding stewardship of the IDS Center and its experience as an owner and operator in Minneapolis as well as other non-gateway markets across the U.S. In a market landscape that remains challenging for commercial real estate and the availability of capital, the trust placed in Accesso by the firm’s clients and business partners proves the company’s value proposition and commitment to the communities in which it serves.

The IDS Center, a 1.42 million-square-foot, 57-story Class A office tower, urban park and retail center, is considered a centerpiece of downtown Minneapolis, serving as a year-round central gathering place for city residents and visitors. The property celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022, and in 2021, completed an extensive renovation of its Crystal Court, an iconic and collaborative gathering space.

2023 Warehouse District Live Recap

Thank you to mpls downtown council and Mpls Downtown Improvement District (DID) for sharing this information on the 2023 Warehouse District Live initiative. 

Photo credit Tony Nelson Photography via Mpls DID

Downtown Minneapolis had a big summer with more than 1,500 events from mid-May through the end of September. Warehouse District Live added to the experience of patrons spending weekend evenings downtown. Sponsored by the City of Minneapolis and produced by the Mpls DID, Warehouse District Live took place from 7pm–3am each Friday and Saturday from Memorial Day through October 15. It was an enhanced pedestrian zone that featured food trucks, tables and seating, restrooms and various activities throughout the summer and fall.

Programming:

• Food trucks
• Late night seating
• Basketball sport courts and games
• Live music
• Karaoke

Special dates:

• June 23-24: Taylor Swift/Pride weekend karaoke and activities
• Sept. 15-16: SeptemberFest live music sets
• Oct. 6-7: Life Time Minneapolis Pickleball Experience + special classes
• Oct. 13-14: Dance Agenda Beats 

Key focuses and outcomes:

• 42 Friday and Saturday night activations
• 350 hours of free public resources (activities, entertainment, food trucks restrooms)
• 24% increase in visitors to the neighborhood compared to 2022
• 150 hours of public karaoke and 30 hours of sets by local DJs
• Visits to the entertainment district returned to 2019-levels in 2023, a 25% increase over 2022 and a 70% increase over 2021
• Collaborative efforts with Hennepin Theatre Trust, Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx, Minnesota Vikings and Life Time all activated WDL
• Collaborative efforts by MPD, traffic control agents, street outreach workers, security and more all helped create a vibrant experience and positively impacted late-night safety

Photo credit Tony Nelson Photography via Mpls DID

Toys for Tots Drop Off Sites

The Canopy is just one of many Toys for Tots drop off sites. Using this link, you can locate a site near you by simply entering the applicable zip code: https://minneapolis-mn.toysfortots.org/local-coordinator-sites/lco-sites/donate-toys.aspx.

311 and the Minneapolis Service Center closed December 19 for Staff Training

Minneapolis 311 and the Minneapolis Service Center will be closed Tuesday, December 19, for a one-day training. Staff will gather to reimagine service delivery to Minneapolis residents and how they can continue to provide exceptional service.

They will resume regular business hours Wednesday, December 20.

How to get information when 311 services are closed:

You can get City information and make reports online whenever 311 is closed, or leave a message for a call back.

• Find information about City topics or departments on the City website.
• Tell the City about issues from barking dogs to graffiti using an online form.
• Dial 311 or 612-673-3000 and leave a message for a call back when business hours resume.

As always, call 911 for emergencies.

The 311 Service Center offers City information and services online on the City website, over the phone at 311 or 612-673-3000, and in person at 505 4th Avenue S, skyway level.

North Loop Winter Market - December 16

Don't miss out on the opportunity to support local businesses and discover hidden gems. Come join the Minnesota Farmers' Market Association at the North Loop Winter Market, a fantastic in-person event where you can find a variety of amazing goodies! Whether you're looking for unique gifts or simply want to indulge in some local delights, this market has it all.

December 16, 10am to 4pm, 501 Royalston Avenue

zAmya Theater Project announces: Yule See, Yule Remember, Dec 20 at Central Library

Free Christmas performance at Central Library, Pohlad Auditorium, 300 Nicollet Mall - December 20, 6pm

zAmya Theater Project announces Yule See, Yule Remember - a free theater performance sure to rekindle your holiday spirit and your spirit for housing justice. 

Yule See, Yule Remember was written by zAmya Troupe Member Caroline Mannheimer and other members of the cast, all of whom are participants in zAmya’s weekly Creative Expression Session workshops. The text incorporates personal stories and holiday memories gathered from workshop participants, many of whom have lived experience of homelessness, for a unique holiday show that is funny, heartfelt, challenging and uplifting. Yule See, Yule Remember encourages us to find joy in each other and our stories as a way to honor the season during tough times. 

Members of the creative team include Maren Ward and Esther Ouray as Co-Directors, with music by Dameun Strange and other members of the cast.  

Tickets are free and advance registration is not required. Doors open 30 minutes prior to show time. The show runs 90 minutes, and ASL interpretation will be provided. $10 gift cards are available for people bringing the lived experience of homelessness.

Creative Expression Sessions are weekly drop-in theater workshops for individuals looking to learn about performance, working together, and creative play. People who have experienced housing instability are especially encouraged to attend. These workshops are a space where participants, often unhoused, build creative skills while processing their experiences. Each workshop session runs for 7+ weeks in winter/spring, summer, and fall. Workshops are produced in partnership with Hennepin County Library and have been offered since 2018. This program is funded in part through Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

Workshops culminate in a “Shareformance” (sharing/performance) process, in which participants can collaborate with zAmya staff and Troupe Members to develop an original performance using the ideas and techniques they have honed throughout the workshop residency. Learn more.

Since 2004, zAmya has been changing hearts and minds through performances and workshops across Minnesota with partners including: Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District, Hennepin Theater Trust, Southwest Minnesota Housing Project, Guthrie Theater, Edina Realty, Salvation Army, Thrivent Financial, Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless Annual Conference, Basilica of St. Mary, Augsburg College, and more.

zAmya Theater Project believes theater can change the narrative of homelessness. Their performances grow from stories lived by participants and crafted by their core artistic members. They share these stories because they know that if we want to unravel this crisis, we have to unravel the story. Informed by experienced advocates and direct service providers, zAmya is led by professional artists, and employs a core group of actors who’ve experienced homelessness to create the plays and guide the direction of the company.

Yule See, Yule Remember is being held the night before the Winter Solstice, which is on National Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day (December 21). Cities across the country organize local events around this time. In the Twin Cities, the 39th Annual Homeless Memorial will be held December 14, 5pm, at Plymouth Congregational Church. Every year, hundreds of community members come together to honor the memories of individuals who passed away in 2023: people who died while experiencing homelessness, who were previously homeless, or who were advocates. At the vigil and silent march, the name of every person is read and a candle is lit for each. This year the names will be read by Shannon Kemp, one of zAmya's longtime Troupe members.

Minnesota Grown Receives National Mississippi River Parkway Commission Award

MN-MRPC Vice-Chair John Anfinson (R) presents the MRPC Stewardship Award to Paul Hugunin (L) and Christina Iliev (C) from the MN Department of Agriculture’s Ag Marketing and Development Division.

The National Mississippi River Parkway Commission (MRPC), made up of ten state commissions, awarded its esteemed Stewardship Award to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Minnesota Grown Program during its annual meeting in Collinsville, Illinois. The award was presented to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture at the Minnesota MRPC quarterly meeting at the Minnesota State Capitol on November 16.

The MRPC Stewardship Award recognizes a person, community or organization for its track record of enhancing environment, recreation, agriculture and transportation along the Mississippi River corridor. Minnesota Grown received the award for its efforts to promote agritourism venues and experiences, in big and small communities, along the Minnesota Great River Road.

Minnesota Grown significantly enhanced the relationship Great River Road travelers have with Minnesota’s agritourism locations and communities through its “Follow the Great River Road to Fall Harvest Fun” campaign highlighting farms, markets, farm-to-table restaurants, parks, scenic points, and lodging options along the Mississippi River, especially in Greater Minnesota. The campaign successfully increased local and tourist engagement with agriculturally linked activities throughout the state. There are over 200 Minnesota Grown locations within 5 – 10 miles of the Great River Road, the network of roadways with access to the Mississippi River from the headwaters to the state’s bluffs region. https://minnesotagrown.com/great-river-road/

Background:

Minnesota’s Mississippi River Parkway Commission (MN-MRPC) is a statutory Commission, recognized in 1963, whose mission is to...To preserve, promote and enhance the scenic, historic, and recreational resources of the Mississippi River, to foster economic growth in the corridor and to develop the national, scenic, and historic byway known as the Great River Road. The MN-MPRC is part of the larger 10-State National MRPC organized in 1938 to celebrate the Mississippi River by developing the Great River Road Scenic Byway. The 10 states include: Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi Missouri, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.

The Minnesota Grown Program is a statewide partnership between the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and Minnesota producers of specialty crops and livestock. It was created over 35 years ago by specialty crop growers to differentiate their produce from produce grown elsewhere. Minnesota Grown connects Minnesotans directly to farmers, farmers’ markets, and other producers. (You will see this logo a lot at the Mill City Farmers Market!)

Two Delicious December Events with Chloe by Vincent

Chloe by Vincent is special anytime, has they have two events happening this month that are extra special!

Dinner and a Concert with STRINGenius, December 18

On Monday, December 18, guests at Chloe by Vincent can enjoy a free concert by STRINGenius. The quartet, who has played with a variety of musicians, from Prince to Andrea Bocelli, will be playing a mix of contemporary and classical music from 6 to 8pm. Because we all know music is good for your soul, the special that night will be Sole Meuniére, the dish that made Julia Child fall in love with French cuisine.

Dinner and a Play on New Year's Eve

Looking for a unique and safe way to spend New Year's Eve? Chloe by Vincent has just the ticket for you! CbV is pairing with the acclaimed Jungle Theater for a dinner/play package with transportation. The 4-course meal and wine pairing is inspired by the 1-hour play which is based on the hilarious Dinner for One, a European holiday tradition. Transportation is provided to and from the restaurant starting at the theater at 3:45pm, so there's no parking dilemmas or safety issues and participants will still be home hours before the ball drops from Times Square. For more information and to make reservations, call the Jungle Box Office at 612-822-7063 Tuesday-Friday, 4-7pm.

Tickets are $145 and include the dinner, wine pairing and transportation. Available through December 20 by calling the Jungle Theater Box Office at 612-822-7063.

Small Business Spotlight: The Cookie Cups

I received a press release about The Cookie Cups earlier this week. I wasn't familiar with this company, so I checked them out online. What fun! I immediately placed an order.

The press release announced the launch of their Baking and Cooking Kit Collection on ShopHQ, a premier online retail platform committed to offering exceptional products. These kits are designed specifically for kids, and offer a fun and educational experience for young culinary enthusiasts. ShopHQ provides an interactive shopping experience that allows families to explore The Cookie Cups' kid-friendly collection, learn insider tips, and embark on a culinary adventure without leaving home. 

Per Nicole Pomije, CEO & Founder of The Cookie Cups, "We're overjoyed to bring the magic of baking and cooking to children through our partnership with ShopHQ. Our Baking and Cooking Kits are crafted with the same dedication to quality and creativity that our customers have come to love. Now, families across the country can enjoy the experience of creating delicious treats together in their own kitchens."

The Cookie Cups' Baking and Cooking Kits on ShopHQ include carefully curated assortments featuring premium ingredients, easy-to-follow instructions, and reusable, kid-friendly kitchen supplies all tailored to capture the imagination of young chefs. Whether it's crafting whimsical cookie cups or experimenting with tasty, kid-approved savory dishes, these kits cater to diverse tastes and skill levels.

Our little granddaughter loves dinosaurs and helping in the kitchen, so this was the perfect gift for her.

The Cookie Cups baking kits for kids all come with an apron, ingredients and supplies to make your at-home baking and cooking experience memorable. Whether you're baking unicorn cookie cups, pizza, pretzels, rainbow ravioli, dinosaur chocolates, caramel rolls, homemade bread, cocoa bombs or lollipops - you, your kids and grandkids will enjoy being together in the kitchen. The Cookie Cups is a certified minority-owned business and has been seen on Good Morning America, Today Show and The Drew Barrymore Show.

A few examples of other kits:

Here's a video of a little one having fun with the Rainbow Ravioli Making Kit: